Happy Week 5, my beautiful brides! You’ve officially made it halfway through the program! Are you feeling stronger? Leaner? More confident? Peter and I love hearing from you, so please share your thoughts with us in the comments below or on social media using #SMPBootcamp.

Speaking of confidence, that’s what Peter and I wanted to chat with you all about this week. You can diet and work out all day every day for months leading up to your wedding, but your self-worth is what is really going to make the difference come your big day. It’s the empowered, self-assured, happy brides who are the most beautiful, regardless of any extra weight they might be carrying around their middle. Of course, a healthy diet and regular exercise contribute to one’s sense of self, but there are other ways we can do this, too.

Here are three of my favorites:

Think positive

The power of positivity is so strong, and so underrated. When we’re overtaken by a negative thought or reaction to something, pausing to change our perspective and put a positive spin on things has the ability to make us happier people overall -- and we all know that a happy bride is a beautiful bride.

Be grateful

Having an “attitude of gratitude,” as my mom likes to call it, is similar to positive thinking, but it takes it one step further. Taking time to express gratitude to yourself, your significant other, your parents, the universe, or whatever you believe has led to your good fortune makes you kinder and more loving to the people around you, and that will shine through on your wedding day, too!

Stand tall

Holy crap, my friends, is posture important. ESPECIALLY on a day when you are the center of attention and want to be glowing and beaming confidence out of your whole being! Standing straight makes you look thinner, taller, more sophisticated, and more poised – who doesn’t want that on their big day?!

So stand tall, stay positive, and be thankful that you are lucky enough to be marrying the best person you’ve ever known!

On the menu this week we’ve got taco salads! Made with lean ground turkey and tons of fresh veggies, this dish is sure to become a staple in your healthy eating arsenal. Plus, it is such a satisfying meal after a big workout, which of course, you’re in for this week. Peter does not believe in cutting us any slack, am I right?

Keep working hard and getting stronger, and remember that you are already amazing and beautiful just as you are – but standing up straight will make that even more apparent to the world.

Molly Winding is a freelance writer and health coach who splits her time between Vail and Denver. She is a foodie, health nut, and lover of books, movies, and meditation. When she isn’t working, you’ll find her spending time outside with her fiancé and their goldendoodle. Follow her @windmol!